Before You Shoot, Be Sure It’s Not Protected

At times it can be hard to tell exactly what you’re firing at – in which case you should not take the shot. There are a number of birds that are protected by law, including some doves and  other migratory birds, like whooping cranes. 

Whooping cranes are endangered and can be confused with other birds. Learn to tell the difference by looking over our tips to I.D. whooping cranes and watching our video Be Sure Before You Shoot.

If in doubt, do not take the shot! If you accidentally take any protected animal, immediately contact the county’s Texas game warden to explain your mistake. How to I.D. protected birds is taught in Hunter Education. Everyone born after Sept. 1, 1971 must have Hunter Ed certification, and be able to provide proof of it while in the field. Check online to confirm you’re certified.